Event to build Polynesian Sports Conference

The Direction de la jeunesse et des sports is organizing an event on October 22 and 23 at the Hilton Tahiti in Faa'a to mark the laying of the foundations for the future Polynesian Sports Conference (Cops) - Apoora'a rahi o te mau tu'aro no Maohi Nui. The event aims to build the Polynesian Sports Conference (Cops) with key actors in the sports movement in French Polynesia, with the motto "Let's build the Cops together."

Event timing and significance

Less than a year before the opening of the Pacific Games in Tahiti, the two-day event will bring together representatives of federations and associations, institutions of the Territory and the State, elected officials, private partners, and high-level athletes. This timing highlights the importance of preparing for the Pacific Games while laying the groundwork for the Polynesian Sports Conference.

Status report and plenary session

A comprehensive status report on Polynesian sports will be presented during a plenary session, providing an overview of the current state of sports in French Polynesia, including its strengths, weaknesses, and challenges. This report will serve as a foundation for the discussions and planning that follow.

Workshops and future priorities

Participants will be divided into different workshops to reflect on the development of future projects and establish a roadmap of current and future priorities. The joint reflection aims to develop a five-year action plan to support the development of various sports practices and those committed to making them thrive.

Event as a unifying opportunity

The event also represents an opportunity to bring together contributors from the sports world around a shared ambition and to highlight the performances of athletes. It will showcase the collective effort needed to advance sports in French Polynesia and inspire future achievements.

Notable guest and debate session

A notable guest will participate: Olympic swimming champion Florent Manaudou, who has recently retired. He will intervene during a debate session at the end of the first day, discussing his experiences and insights as an Olympic athlete.

Event schedule and activities

The program includes a welcome and coffee on Thursday, October 22, from 9:00 to 9:30, followed by an official opening ceremony from 9:30 to 10:00. A presentation of the territorial assessment of the state of sports in French Polynesia will take place from 10:00 to 11:30. Free lunch break is scheduled from 11:30 to 13:00, followed by workshops from 13:00 to 16:00 with eight different themes.

Discussion and closing session

A discussion on sports with Florent Manaudou and his coach Quentin Coton titled "Gold does not come alone, the journey of an Olympic champion" will take place from 18:00 to 19:00. On Friday, October 23, the event will begin with a welcome and coffee from 8:30 to 9:00, followed by a plenary presentation of the workshop findings from 9:00 to 11:30. The official closing with the adoption of the orientations will be held from 11:30 to 12:30.